Using USB Hubs with the USB Host Port

Morningstar controllers with a USB Host port can connect directly to USB MIDI devices.
You can also connect a USB hub to the USB Host port to connect and control multiple USB MIDI devices at the same time.

What USB Hubs Should I Use?

We recommend using a simple USB hub that only provides additional USB ports.
For example:
Morningstar Controller → USB Hub → USB MIDI Devices
Both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 hubs can work. However, given the large number of USB hubs and chipsets available, we cannot guarantee compatibility with every hub.
Generally, simpler hubs tend to have the best compatibility.

USB-C Hubs with HDMI, Ethernet, SD Cards etc.

We do not recommend using multi-function USB hubs or docks that include additional features such as:

• HDMI or DisplayPort
• Ethernet
• SD or MicroSD card readers
• USB-C Power Delivery
• Audio outputs
• Other built-in peripherals

Although these products are commonly sold as "USB hubs", they are considerably more complex than a standard USB hub.
For example, a multi-function hub may internally contain several USB hubs and controllers for the HDMI, Ethernet and card reader functions.
These hubs are typically designed for computers, tablets and phones and may rely on USB-C functions that are not required for USB MIDI communication.
As such, they may not work correctly when connected to the Morningstar USB Host port.
If you are purchasing a hub specifically for use with your Morningstar controller, we recommend getting a simple USB hub without these additional functions.

Powered USB Hubs

USB devices connected to the USB Host port may draw power from the Morningstar controller.
If you are connecting multiple USB devices, we recommend using a powered USB hub.
A powered USB hub has its own external power supply and supplies power to the connected USB devices.
This is especially important if the connected devices draw significant power.
Without sufficient power, you may experience issues such as:

• USB devices not being detected
• Devices disconnecting and reconnecting
• A setup working with one device but not with multiple devices
• Devices failing to start correctly when powered on

Connecting Multiple USB MIDI Devices

Connect the hub directly to the USB Host port, then connect your USB MIDI devices to the hub.
For example:
Morningstar Controller
↓
USB Hub
↓
USB MIDI Device 1
USB MIDI Device 2
USB MIDI Device 3
Up to 4 USB MIDI devices can be connected via the USB Host port.
If you are connecting and powering multiple devices, use a powered USB hub.

Troubleshooting

If your USB MIDI device works when connected directly to the USB Host port but does not work through your USB hub:

1. Connect only one USB MIDI device to the hub and test again.
2. Disconnect any non-MIDI USB devices from the hub.
3. If the hub has HDMI, Ethernet, SD card or other additional functions, try a simpler USB-only hub.
4. If multiple devices are connected, try using a powered USB hub.
5. Try a different USB hub.

If one hub works while another does not with the same devices, it is likely that the incompatible hub uses an internal design that is not compatible with the USB Host port.
Given the vast number of USB hubs available, we are unable to guarantee compatibility with every model.

Updated on: 28/08/2026